Accounting

From entering day-to-day transactions to filing taxes, nearly every organization in every industry needs accounting help. At Front Range Community College, you'll get the skills you need to become an entry-level accountant, bookkeeper or tax preparer. 

We offer in-person and online courses, giving you the flexibility you need. No matter which program you choose, our small classes and supportive community will help lead you to success.

Why Study Accounting at Front Range Community College?

Develop the accounting skills you need to begin a career in two years or less. You'll learn important computer skills, focusing on Excel and QuickBooks Online.  You'll also learn essential accounting principles relevant to today's job market. 

With our Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in accounting, you can enter the workforce and start your career. We also offer two certificate programs—in bookkeeping and tax preparation—that you can complete in just one year. These certificates will help you quickly get the skills you need to start your new career.

FRCC also provides flexibility and convenience for your class options. You can earn your accounting degree or certificate online or in person at our three campus locations. At FRCC, you'll be sure to find a program that fits your needs.

Degree Details

AAS in Accounting

Locations: Online, Boulder County, Larimer, Westminster
Total Credits: 60 credits (4 semesters)

With an AAS degree in accounting, you'll gain the financial skills you need to work as an entry-level accountant or bookkeeper. You'll work under the supervision of professional accountants in businesses or government.

With this program, you will be ready to enter the workforce upon graduating.

View Program Details

Certificate Options

Earning an accounting certificate is a great way to get into the industry. 

Bookkeeping Certificate

Locations: Online, Boulder County, Larimer, Westminster

Total Credits: 19 credits (2 semesters)

Learn to perform full-charge bookkeeping and payroll for small- and medium-sized businesses. You'll gain strong computer skills in Excel and QuickBooks Online. You can also earn the external credentials:

  • Certified Bookkeeper conferred by American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers
  • QuickBooks Online ProAdvisor

All of the courses required in the Bookkeeping Certificate can be applied to the AAS in accounting degree.

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Tax Preparation Certificate

Locations: Online,  Westminster

Total Credits: 18 credits (2 semesters)

Discover how to prepare income taxes for individuals, businesses, estates and trusts. In this program, you will learn practical accounting principles and how to use tax software. You will also have the opportunity to earn the Enrolled Agent (EA) external credential conferred by the IRS. All of the courses required in the Tax Preparation Certificate can be applied to the AAS in accounting degree.

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Transfer Options

If you are planning to earn a bachelor's degree in accounting, we encourage you to apply for FRCC's Associate of Arts (AA) in business.

AAS in Accounting

The AAS in accounting is designed to allow students to directly enter the workforce. But there are options for you to transfer with an AAS to earn a four-year degree.

  • Metropolitan State University of Denver will accept most of the credits in FRCC’s AAS in accounting.
  • Other Colorado 4-year colleges and universities will accept some of the credits from FRCC’s AAS as transfer credits. You will need to contact the institution to which you want to transfer to have them identify the credits they will accept for transfer.

AA in Business

If you are interested in transferring to one of Colorado's public universities to complete a bachelor's degree in accounting, we encourage you to complete our AA in business. With this degree, you will be able to transfer your AA to a four-year accounting program.

Explore FRCC's AA in Business

Be sure to talk with an advisor when selecting your courses to ensure you will complete your degree on time with the classes you need.

Career & Outcomes

Your degree or certificate program in accounting can open doors for a career in a variety of fields. Although some of these careers require bachelor's and graduate degrees, you'll get a strong foundation with a degree from FRCC.

Firsthand Accounting Experience

FRCC’s Accounting program provides students with opportunities for hands-on experience:

  • Enroll in ACC 2088 to participate in a bookkeeping practicum during which you will work on a team with other students to provide bookkeeping assistance to small business owners. Your work will be supervised by an instructor and all work will be done using QuickBooks Online.
  • Enroll in ACC 1032 to participate in a Tax Help Colorado practicum during which you will prepare tax returns for community members under the supervision of an instructor.